canary islands inter island travel

• Playa de las Americas
• Puerto de la Cruz
• Los Gigantes
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• San Cristóbal de La Laguna
• Santa Cruz de Tenerife
• Teide National Park
• Tenerife Markets
• History of Tenerife
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• Weather by Month in Tenerife

Inter-island Travel

• Tenerife Airport Transfers
• Tenerife Bus Routes and Timetables
• Tenerife Flights
• How to get to your Resort
• Exchanging Currency in Tenerife
• Prices in Tenerife
• Is Tenerife one hour ahead of the UK?

• About Tenerife History, Weather, Climate and Map of Tenerife.
• Attractions
• Cities/Towns
• How to get to your Resort Instructions on how to get to your resort by car, bus, taxi or airport transfer.
• Travel Info

Tenerife makes the perfect base to explore the Canary Islands with direct flights available to all of the other islands and ferry connections with all of the western islands as well as Gran Canaria, Lanzarote and Fuerteventura.

The majority of Inter-island flights operate from Tenerife North Airport with the southern airport used mostly for international flights. CanaryFly and Binter operate these routes using fleets of ATR 72 twin-turboprop aircraft.

Both Fred Olsen and Naviera Armas offer services between Los Cristianos and La Gomera, La Palma and El Hierro and between Santa Cruz and Gran Canaria.

Inter-Island Flights

Canaryfly Binter

Car Ferries

Naviera Armas Fred Olsen

Fuerteventura

Fuerteventura Guide

Lanzarote Guide

Gran Canaria

Canary Islands

Guide to the Canary Islands

12 Responses

Hi, what is the best method of getting to a hotel in Playa del las Americas from my hotel in Puerto de la Cruz? Thanks

administrator

I think that the best way would be to get the 343 bus from Puerto de la Cruz to the Magma bus stop near Playa de las Americas. Taxis to/from the hotels to the bus stops shouldn’t be too expensive. Otherwise, you could try to agree a price with a taxi driver to go direct, but it’s a long journey and might be expensive.

Noel Howard

Hi, We have been in Tenerife since October 19th and plan to go to Gran Canaria on January 3rd next. Do we have to do anything required to fly there since we will have been here for 10 weeks at that stage Thank you, NH.

Hi, It is my understanding that you are exempt from having to take a new test, but you will need to present a ‘declaration of responsibility for non-residents’ form along with documents that prove you arrived in the Canary Islands before the new requirement came into effect. You can read more on this and download the from here: https://turismodeislascanarias.com/en/covid-19-tests/

Karl Bailey

Hello I am going to fly from Gran Canaria to Tenerife. I was wondering how early I need to be at the airport before departure for internal flights

Hi, If you have hand luggage only, I would say an hour. If you need to check in a bag, then you should allow a bit longer.

Hi, we plan to arrive in Tenerife by ferry. Is it possible to take a bus from the ferry port to Playa de Las Americas? Are there direct buses and how long would the journey be? Just wondering if it would be better to fly to the south airport. We are coming from Gran Canaria. Thank you!

Hi, You can get the 110 bus from the Intercambiador Bus Station in Santa Cruz to the ‘Magma’ stop in Playa de Las Americas. The journey takes about 55 minutes.

Stefan Sergiu Varga

Hello. We are planning a trip to Canary Islands. We wat to go from Maspalomas to Costa Adeje, but google shows us a really really long route. We where wondering, is there any direct (more or less) both between the two? Or maybe other sugestions so we won’t have to sorund the islands?

Hi, You can either get a ferry to Santa Cruz from Puerto de las Nieves or Las Palmas. The fastest way is to fly directly to Tenerife South Airport from Gran Canaria Airport.

Is there an internal flight from Tenerife South Airport to La Gomera if so is there a time table of flights please.

Hi, No, there is no direct flight – you would need to fly from Tenerife North.

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• Island hopping in the Canary Islands: the complete guide

Precious drops in the ocean!

• Ferry Tickets

The Canary Islands are the perfect destination for island hopping . The archipelago is famous for its diverse landscapes, amazing beaches, volcanic terrain, and exceptional culture. Read our complete 2023 guide with island hopping suggestions for the Canaries and start planning your trip with Ferryhopper.

The beautiful coast of Tenerife, perfect for swimming or surfing

Canary Islands: travel information and tips

The Canary Islands belong to Spain and are located in the Atlantic Ocean, opposite Morocco. The best time to visit the Canary Islands is from April to October, but their  warm weather means it’s great to visit throughout the year! So, if you're thinking of visiting the archipelago during the winter or for your Christmas break, we guarantee you'll love it!

There are a total of 8 major islands and more smaller islands, and islets to explore. The smallest of the Canary Islands is La Graciosa, while the largest island is Tenerife. The archipelago has 2 capitals: Santa Cruz de Tenerife and Las Palmas in Gran Canaria.

Here are the major islands of the Canary archipelago :

• Fuerteventura
• La Graciosa
• Gran Canaria

Tip : one of the best times to visit the Canary Islands is in February , when the famous Carnival of Santa Cruz takes place.

Driving among the volcanoes on the island of El Hierro

How many days do you need in the Canary Islands?

We recommend that you stay for at least 1 week in the Canary Islands to get a feel for the culture and the extraordinary landscape. Tenerife , Lanzarote , Fuerteventura , and Gran Canaria are perfect for a longer vacation too. In case you only visit the Canaries for a short vacation break , you can stay on one of the smaller islands, like La Graciosa , El Hierro , La Palma , or La Gomera .

The Spanish archipelago is a diverse destination with many holiday options. If you want to fully experience the local culture and to visit many impressive landscapes, you can travel by ferry between the islands.

Your island-hopping extravaganza in the Canary Islands can last from a single day to a whole summer!

Why are they called the Canary Islands?

The name “Canary Islands” literally means “islands of dogs” , deriving from the Latin phrase “canariae insulae”. The island group owes its name to the dog breeds found on the islands since ancient times.

As for yellow canaries, there might be some (why not?), but there's no connection to the name of the archipelago.

Tip : want to introduce your doggo to a local Canarian breed? Learn how to travel by ferry in Spain with your pet .

Canarian hound enjoying a sunny day on the beach in Lanzarote

Island hopping and ferry travel in the Canary Islands

Traveling by ferry in the Canary Islands is easy . There are frequent ferry connections between all the islands. You can catch a ferry throughout the year, and go island hopping with one of the following ferry companies:

• Líneas Romero
• Fred. Olsen Express
• Naviera Armas
• Biosfera Express

How do you get around the Canary Islands?

You can get around the Canary Islands by ferry or plane. There are 8 major airports and more than 16 large ports .

The main transport hubs of the Canary Islands are Tenerife and Gran Canaria. From these 2 islands, you can travel by ferry to the whole archipelago.

Ferry routes in the Canary Islands

There are several routes to choose from when it comes to getting around the Canary Islands. Have a look at some of the most popular crossings below and find more info about ferry routes between the ports of the Canaries.

• From Gran Canaria to Fuerteventura : there are up to 5 daily ferry crossings from Gran Canaria to Fuerteventura . Tickets start at around €47 , and the journey duration ranges from 2 to 7 hours .
• From Lanzarote to La Graciosa : the Lanzarote - La Graciosa ferry route is available with 16 daily crossings on average. It takes 25 minutes to reach La Graciosa and tickets are €15 .
• From Tenerife to La Gomera : the Tenerife - La Gomera ferry crossing takes place at least 5  times daily . The journey duration is 50 minutes to 1 hour and tickets start at around €43 .
• From Lanzarote to Fuerteventura : ferries from Lanzarote to Fuerteventura are in operation daily with several crossings. The cheapest ferry tickets to Fuerteventura are  €17.50 . The trip takes around 25-35 minutes .

Have a look here for more information about ferry schedules in Spain in 2023 .

Tip : you can also get to the Canary Islands by ferry from mainland Spain. There are regular routes departing from the ports of Huelva  and Cádiz . Read about the mainland Spain - Tenerife ferry schedules  for example.

The Naviera Armas ferry on the route from Tenerife to Fuerteventura

Popular island-hopping itineraries for the Canary Islands

There are many ways to explore the Canary Islands. Whether you’re in the archipelago for a short time or you’re having a multi-week vacation, it is worth visiting some of the beautiful islands.

Here are some island-hopping suggestions by the Ferryhopper Team:

One-day island-hopping in the Canary Islands

The Canary island group is great for short island-hopping trips, as there are many islands and islets with frequent ferry crossings. Some of the best short trips are: Lanzarote - Fuerteventura and Lanzarote - La Graciosa.

Lanzarote - Fuerteventura island hopping

For a single-day island-hopping excursion, you can catch the ferry from Lanzarote to Fuerteventura. Lanzarote is a beautiful island, great for relaxing holidays and endless exploration.

Before you hop on the ferry to Fuerteventura, make sure you visit the national park of Timanfaya with its impressive lunar-like hills and swim at one of the magical beaches  in the south, such as Papagayo.

Breathtaking volcano at the Timanfaya National Park in Lanzarote

To get to Fuerteventura, you need to catch the ferry from the port of Playa Blanca on the southern coast of the island. There are at least 20 daily crossings from Playa Blanca to the port of Corralejo in Fuerteventura. The sailing duration is really short, just 25-35 minutes , and it’s ideal for island hopping. Also, tickets to Fuerteventura from Lanzarote start at around €17 .

We recommend you start your island-hopping trip around 08:30  to make the most of it! Once you arrive at the port of Corralejo, you will find yourself on a beautiful beach, where you can have your first quick swim. From the port, you can be in the Corralejo Natural Park in 10 minutes by car. Walk among impressive sand dunes  and admire the view of the ocean.

Continue your trip by visiting the  capital , Puerto del Rosario. Explore the local markets , grab a quick coffee and snacks, and head to the beach of Castillo in Caleta de Fuste.

After a few relaxing moments, you can start driving to the southernmost part of the island. Pass by impressive landscapes, until you reach the Natural Park of Jandía , where you can hike among green hills, rocky beaches and sand dunes. 

Make your way inland and try delicious papas arrugadas and majorero  cheese at the village of Antigua. Explore the island’s towns and villages such as La Oliva and Lajares, before driving further north to the famous Popcorn Beach , where you can take amazing photos with the popcorn-like rhodoliths. This would be your final stop before getting back to the port of Corralejo to catch the last ferry at 20:00 .

Tip : if you prefer to stay on the northern part of the island, you can catch a boat from Corralejo to the islet of Lobos , a destination of great natural beauty, just 15 minutes away from Fuerteventura.

Extra tip : with so many ferry crossings, you can always return to Fuerteventura the following day. Surfers, in particular, will love riding the waves at one of the best surf spots in the Canaries : the Bubble.

The Morro Jable lighthouse on the Jandía peninsula in Fuerteventura

Lanzarote - La Graciosa island hopping

The ferry route from Lanzarote to La Graciosa is one of the best island-hopping adventures you can try in the Canaries! The two islands are frequently connected and are very close. Also, island-hopping tickets are only €15  one-way with Líneas Romero and Biosfera Express.

So, head to the port of Órzola in Lanzarote and catch the 08:30 ferry to La Graciosa! The crossing only takes 25 minutes and, even though you cannot take your vehicle to La Graciosa, there are several transportation options on the island.

Once you reach La Graciosa, you will realize it is quite different from the rest of the Canaries, as it is very quiet and almost entirely untamed. We recommend that you focus on the outdoor exploration of the island, visit its majestic beaches , go hiking, enjoy the sunset from one of the awe-inspiring hills, and go on a jeep safari as well!

4x4 vehicles take visitors around the island to explore the must-see spots of La Graciosa, such as the Las Conchas beach and the Amarilla Mountain. You can also try snorkeling, diving and cycling!

Our favorite activity in La Graciosa is going on a boat tour around its coast. So, if you have enough time before you catch the last ferry back to Lanzarote  which is usually around 19:00, hop on a boat and try to catch a glimpse of the magnificent dolphins that hang around this magical part of the Atlantic Ocean.

Tip : La Cocina beach is one of the most popular spots for dolphin-watching in La Graciosa.

The unspoilt beach of La Cocina in La Graciosa

Multi-day island hopping in the Canary Islands

The Canary group consists of large and small islands with impressive nature and beautiful sites. There’s something for everyone in the Canaries. From family-friendly attractions and calm beaches to extreme water sports and hardcore hiking, each island has a special tapestry of experiences.

Find some of the best  multi-day island hopping trip suggestions in the Canary Islands below.

La Palma - La Gomera - Tenerife island hopping

For an extended island-hopping trip, you can travel by ferry from the island of La Palma to La Gomera  and then catch the ferry from the port of La Gomera to Tenerife . In La Palma, you can hike along the impressive Volcano Route , go scuba-diving in Cancajos and visit the old town of Santa Cruz.

Hiking among volcanoes on the island of La Palma

Start your island-hopping vacation by catching a ferry from the port of Santa Cruz in La Palma to San Sebastián in La Gomera early in the morning. You’ll arrive in La Gomera in a little less than  4  hours . The port of San Sebastián is located on the eastern coast of the island.

The black-sand beach of San Sebastián near the port is a worthy first stop right after you drop off your luggage at the hotel. Enjoy the clear waters and head to the city center for a delicious meal or a short walk around the town. The Torre del Conde Park is one of the best parks in the Canary Islands.

La Gomera is an adventure-lover’s paradise, so you should visit some of the impressive natural sites, such as the Garajonay National Park and the Roques viewpoint. This is one of the best places to admire the ocean view and take amazing photos with a beautiful background.

Follow the island’s trails either by bike or on foot, and get to witness the grandeur of nature in an untouched landscape. For the thrill-enthusiasts out there, there are also whale-watching and horse-riding centers!

Hiking to Alto de Garajonay, the highest point on the island of La Gomera

You’ll need at least 3 days to explore the whole island, before catching the ferry to Tenerife. There are around  5-6 daily  crossings between La Gomera and Tenerife, so there is a lot of flexibility for you to plan your trip.

We recommend catching the ferry from San Sebastián to Los Cristianos . The port of Los Cristianos is on the southern coast of the island and the journey duration is less than  1 hour .

While in Tenerife, make sure you visit some of the most  majestic beaches . El Duque, Antequera and San Marcos are some of our favorite coves on the island. You can go hiking, visit the Siam Water Park and play golf at one of the golf courses . The Teide National Park and the Orotava Valley are surely worth a visit. You will be amazed by the incredible natural landscapes of the island.

If you want to experience the local way of life and taste amazing food, you can spend a morning browsing the Mercado Municipal Nuestra Señora de Africa in Santa Cruz. This amazing local market has everything you need for a great day in the capital: cafes, bars, shops, and traditional products.

You’ll need at least 5 days to explore the island of Tenerife. From there, you can catch a flight back home or travel by ferry to Huelva and Cádiz in mainland Spain.

The remote beach of Antequera on the northern coast of Tenerife

Useful tips about island hopping in the Canary Islands

Here are some useful travel tips about island hopping in the Canary Islands:

• We recommend that you drive or rent a vehicle when going island hopping in the Canary Islands. Although public transportation is good on most of the islands, a private vehicle gives you freedom to explore every hidden spot.
• Island hopping in the Canaries is all about nature exploration and amazing landscapes. Bring your best hiking shoes to walk comfortably among the hilltops and volcanoes.
• One-day island hopping is great if you’re short on time. Make sure you bring enough water and snacks for the whole group; you'll surely feel hungry spending a whole day on the road.
• One of the best ideas for island hopping in the Canary archipelago is to plan your trip so that you fly back home from the last island-hopping stop of your itinerary.
• Most of the islands have multiple ports , where you can catch a ferry. Make sure you find accommodation close to the port of departure to minimize traveling time.
• For the latest 2023 ferry schedules in the Canaries , follow the Ferryhopper updates!

Book island hopping tickets for the Canary Islands online

On Ferryhopper, you can easily book island-hopping tickets for the Canary Islands. Find all the information you need about available ferry routes on Ferryhopper’s Map of ferries , compare ferry companies and itineraries, and plan your trip in the Canaries with confidence.

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• A Guide To Island Hopping...

A Guide To Island Hopping Around The Canary Islands

The Canary Islands lie approximately 100 kilometres from the south coast of Morocco. An archipelago of seven main islands, they may be part of Spain, but seem to have more in common with the Caribbean due to their laid-back vibe, island time and stunning beaches. Many of the Canary Islands have been awarded UNESCO Biosphere Reserve status because of their unique volcanic landscapes and national parks. Here’s our guide to island hopping between them.

Lanzarote may be a famous package holiday and clubbing island, but look beyond this and you’ll soon discover what it’s really about. An alien-like landscape of red and black volcanic rocks, Lanzarote is also known for its excellent wines, of the Malvasia variety. Don’t leave without visiting some of its otherworldly lava tubes, some of which you can even go inside. Its excellent climate, long sunny days and dramatic landscapes also means that Lanzarote is popular with athletes and sports teams, many of whom come here to train for Olympic swimming, running and cycling. Getting there Lanzarote is the northernmost Canary Island and is home to Arrecife Airport, serving many European destinations, as well as flights to mainland Spain. There is one ferry route from Lanzarote to Fuerteventura, operated by three different ferry companies and offering daily sailings, taking just 25 minutes.

Fuerteventura

Fuerteventura is known as the Canary Islands’ beach, with over 150 kilometres of white sand coastline to explore. Its beaches and dramatic volcanic landscapes mean that it’s the ideal holiday playground. Just offshore you’ll also find plenty of entertainment options such as windsurfing and kitesurfing. And if the beaches don’t do it for you, Fuerteventura’s famous cheeses definitely will. Getting there Situated just south of Lanzarote, Fuerteventura’s main airport, El Matorral, serves many European destinations via both low-cost and international carriers. There are two ferry routes between here and Gran Canaria (situated southwest of the island), offering 33 sailings per week.

Gran Canaria

Home to the capital of the Canary Islands, the historic and vibrant Las Palmas, Gran Canaria is known as a continent in miniature. In one day here you can see lush volcanic craters, desert-like sand dunes at Maspalomas, beautiful beaches and rocky barren hills. It’s also a top wellness destination, offering many spa hotels as well as some of Europe’s biggest thalassotherapy centers. Getting there Las Palmas de Gran Canaria international airport is the busiest in the Canary Islands in terms of cargo and passenger traffic. It’s served by many airlines from all over Europe and also has many connections to West Africa. There are two ferry routes that run between Gran Canaria and Tenerife, mostly between the towns of Las Palmas and Santa Cruz de Tenerife, offering a total of 64 sailings per week.

The largest island in the Canaries, Tenerife is known for its party vibe and wild clubs, but it has so much more to offer, whether it’s nature, sports or beaches that you’re after. Tenerife is home to a total of eight golf courses with modern facilities, which you can enjoy all year round, and is also one of the Canaries’ top whale watching destinations – 26 species have been spotted off the coast here, including pilot whales, baleen whales and even the mighty blue whale. Tenerife also boasts Spain’s highest mountain, and the third highest island volcano in the world – Mount Teide, located within the UNESCO World Heritage Teide National Park. Getting there Tenerife is home to two international airports, the largest of which is Tenerife Sur, the second biggest in the Canary Islands and served by many international and budget airlines to a variety of European destinations. Tenerife also lies within easy reach of Gran Canaria and La Gomera by ferry. Ferries go from Los Cristianos de Tenerife to San Sebastián de La Gomera and take around 40 minutes.

La Gomera is one of the most enchanting and magical of the Canary Islands, where some of the streets are made of sand and there’s an ancient whistling language called Silbo. Explore La Gomera via its 650 kilometres worth of walking trails, taking you to some of its most stunning locations. Getting there La Gomera has one domestic airport, serving Tenerife North only, and offering two return flights per day. There is just one ferry between La Gomera and La Palma, operated by two ferry companies and taking around one hour 50 minutes.

La Palma is called the beautiful island due to its stunning landscapes of soaring volcanos, verdant forests and paradisiacal beaches. Because of its clear skies and lack of pollution, La Palma has also become known as one of the world’s best locations for star gazing, and was certified the first Starlight Reserve on Earth by the UNSECO Starlight Initiative . Getting there La Palma has one main airport, which is served mainly by Binter Canarias and CanaryFly, with island-hopping flights from Tenerife and Gran Canaria. It also serves a variety of other European destinations such as the UK, France, the Netherlands, Belgium and Germany. There are two ferry routes between Tenerife and La Palma, offering a total of 28 sailings per week.

El Hierro may be one of the smallest and most rural of the islands, but it’s also one of the most forward-thinking, with schemes in place to become completely self-sufficient in electrical energy. It’s also one of the best islands for for diving, boasting a marine reserve, home to an incredible 46 dive sites and a large variety of marine life. Getting there El Hierro has one domestic airport offering flights to Tenerife North and Gran Canaria only. There is one ferry route between El Hierro and Tenerife operating weekly and taking around two hours 15 minutes.

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All our travel guides are curated by the Culture Trip team working in tandem with local experts. From unique experiences to essential tips on how to make the most of your future travels, we’ve got you covered.

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Ah, the Canary Islands – a land of smoke-belching volcanos, black-sand beaches, barreling surf breaks, and buzzy resort towns where end-of-holiday tans are all but guaranteed. This sunny archipelago is considered one of the greatest spots in Spain, and, for some travelers, hitting just one island is simply never enough. Cue this guide to how to travel between the Canary Islands…

Here, we’ll delve into the main ways you can trade one for another mid-trip, no matter whether that means going from the lush laurel forests of Gran Canaria to the whitewashed towns of inland Lanzarote , the carnival streets of Santa Cruz de Tenerife to the teal bays of Fuerteventura, or something else entirely.

The good news is that there are pretty darn good links between this set of Spanish isles. Flights and ferries combine to offer a whole load of different options, both quick and interesting, affordable and comfy. Let’s dig a little deeper…

Table of Contents

An intro to the geography of the Canary Islands

First thing’s first: Let’s get a ballpark feel for the geography of the Canary Islands. Doing that should give you an idea of what it’s like to travel around this much-vaunted Spanish archipelago, what sort of travel times you can expect between the different destinations, and what transport options are on the menu.

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Set out in the Atlantic Ocean just 62 miles off the sun-scorched coast of North Africa, this autonomous region of Spain – the southernmost, just so you know – is pretty darn remote. It’s a four-hour flight in from London before you even get to start hopping from isle to isle. Thankfully, there are oodles of connections and multiple entry points. Picking the right one is certainly worth thinking about when planning a cross-island jaunt, too, because some are better starting positions than others.

In total there are eight main islands in the group, but a whole scattering more smaller islets that have tiny populations, and, on top of that, oodles of rocks that are little more than perches for seagulls above the swells. The ones we’ll focus on here are the eight main islands since they are by far the ones that you’re most likely to want to visit for your holidays.

Said isles fall into two main groups: The western and the eastern group. There’s a strait of about 58 miles dividing the two sets, but they are more discernable thanks to their geography – the western isles are lusher and more altitudinous, while the eastern group is more rugged and volcanic. Here’s a closer look at which islands belong to which group:

• The western group: Tenerife, Gran Canaria, La Gomera, La Palma
• The eastern group: Fuerteventura, Lanzarote.

In total, all the islands in the Canaries span a section of the Atlantic that’s about 300 miles long from east to west. The biggest divide is between the two groups, but it’s still navigable and easy to cross, as you shall see…

How to travel between Canary Islands – a quick overview

Now we’ve got the geography lesson out of the way, let’s take a look at how you can hop and cross that 300 miles of Atlantic Ocean from west to east, east to west, all in search of perfect beaches and the best volcano hikes. Let’s begin by stating the obvious: There are only two ways to cross from isle to isle, by sea or by air. To put it another way, by plane or by boat.

Mhmm, there are no bridges that link any of the isles, no underwater tunnels, no causeways. You’re going to have to ditch the wheels for this one. The good news is that actually makes things pretty simple, as you always know there are only ever two choices for getting from A to B in these parts.

Generally speaking, flying is considered the fastest option while sailing is more relaxed. However, there are some routes that you might have to do by one method simply because there is no boat or flight connection on the menu. That’s why it’s worth getting to know a bit about both modes of transport…

How to travel between Canary Islands by plane

Here’s the good news: Every single major island of the eight in the Canaries has its own airport, while Tenerife – one of the most popular – even has two. That probably makes this one of the best-connected regions for aviation in the whole of Europe, although most of the terminals are pretty small and only host a handful of carriers.

Talking of carriers…there are two main names to know about when it comes to internal flying here. Let’s take a quick look at each in turn:

• Binter Canarias – The biggest of the two carriers who operate domestic routes throughout the Canaries, Binter, as it’s known for short, has an encompassing array of links between major islands but also serves international destinations in mainland Spain and other Atlantic archipelagos like Cabo Verde.
• Canaryfly – A relatively new name on the block, Canaryfly was founded in 2008 and currently runs flights on eight of the most popular routes in the chain.

Both of the above operate airplanes designed specifically for short haul carrying. That means no massive Boeing and Airbus models, but rather smaller prop planes built by Bombardier and the like. The upshot? Capacity tends to be smaller so flights can sell out faster, but there’s also not an overload of demand and there are often multiple departures each day on the most popular routes.

Route wise, things are pretty good when it comes to moving from major islands to other major islands. For example, you can get upwards of 10 connections a day on Binter Canarias between Lanzarote and Gran Canaria. The same can’t be said for getting to smaller islands like La Gomera, which only has two or three daily links to Gran Canaria, and sometimes no links to other islands at all, meaning a stopover will be needed if you want to do certain legs in a single trip.

Prices tend to be VERY attractive for flights. As an example, springtime fares on Binter from Tenerife North to La Palma can be as low as €12.50 ($13.15) each way, while connections on the most popular routes rarely swell past €27 ($28.40) each way. These are also full-service fares, mostly allowing for some changes and with a checked baggage allowance of 20kg per person (10kg for infants). Not bad, eh?

The truth is that flying from Canary to Canary is now the number-one choice among travelers. Dropping airfare and high convenience means it’s very often the best way to get from A to B, especially when looking to move quite far across the archipelago, say from Lanzarote in the east all the way to La Palma in the west.

How to travel between Canary Islands by boat

If you don’t have a head for heights or want to travel slow, then there’s always the option of the boats. At least four big companies still offer a comprehensive array of island-to-island links here, including Armas , Biosfera Express, Líneas Romero, and Fred Olsen. Some specialize in different regions of the Canaries, while others cover the whole shebang.

Laying out every route there is by ferry in the Canaries would take a short book but suffice to say there are lots to pick from. A good starting point for planning a trip is to get to know the major ports of each island. That’s Arrecife in Lanzarote, for example, but Las Palmas in Gran Canaria, and then much smaller Puerto de la Estaca over in El Hierro. Knowing the places where the boats depart from makes it easy to search for routes out to the places you want to go, helping you put together island-hopping itineraries in full.

Ferry links naturally take longer than connections in the air. While a flight from Lanzarote to Gran Canaria is in the range of 45 minutes, a boat trip can clock up 5.5-6.5 hours in all. It’s certainly not for commuters or hurried vacationers. In fact, one of the great draws of the trip by water is the journey itself – it’s not unusual to spot dolphin pods and whales as you go, while the vistas of other islands passing by can be wonderful.

Sadly, the prices don’t seem to mirror the extra effort it takes on many routes, so ferries in the Canaries are a bit of a labor of love. You can pay under €20 for a ride from Arrecife to Gran Canaria by plane but will have to fork out nearly €100 for the same trip done by the sea!

Of course, the major upside of ferry travel is that you can transport more than just yourself and your baggage. You can take whole cars and motorbikes if you like. However, if you plan on doing that and are renting a car, it’s certainly worth checking with your hire company that their policy allows for inter-island travel.

How to travel between Canary Islands – our conclusion

There are two main ways to travel from Canary Island to Canary Island: Boat and plane. Most travelers will try the latter first these days. That’s because flying is not only a whole load quicker but also cheaper in many cases. It’s also now possible to get to all eight of the major isles by the skies, though some journeys might require a stopover.

Ferries are slower and tend to be more expensive when it comes to getting between the major islands. Reasons you might want to take them include the ability to transport cars and more luggage, but also the pleasantness of the ride itself (whale spotting is a possibility, you know?). Also, short ferry rides to a minor islands, like to La Graciosa from Lanzarote, are often the ONLY option on the menu.

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• Where to Stay in Lanzarote Need help deciding where to stay in Lanzarote? Use our guide to Lanzarote’s tourist resort towns to help you choose.
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• Lanzarote Tours Tours of Lanzarote via air-conditioned mini-bus – simply book your tour and get picked up and dropped off from your Hotel or Accommodation. All of these tours are limited to a maximum of 14 people and include entrance fees to the tourist attractions. These tours are also limited to one language per tour to ensure that visitors get the best possible experience.
• Travel & Transport Lanzarote Travel and Transport

Small Islands The small islands of La Graciosa and Isla de Lobos are also accessible. A ferry leaves from Orzola in the north of the Island for La Graciosa and several excursions provide day-trips to Isla de Lobos (a small island to the north of neighbouring Fuerteventura).

Fuerteventura Fuerteventura is easily accessible by Ferry from Lanzarote and the journey can take as little as twenty minutes. Fred Olsen, Naviera Armas and Lineas Romero all operate ferries on the Playa Blanca – Corralejo (Fuerteventura) route. The Lineas Romero ferries are for foot passengers only.

Click here to compare Ferry Prices

Gran Canaria Naviera Armas operate a ferry between Arreife and Las Palmas, though many opt to make the shorter crossing to Fuerteventura, drive the length of Fuerteventura and use the high-speed ferry crossing from Morro Jable to Las Palmas. Trasmediterranea offer less frequent connections with Tenerife, La Palma, Gran Canaria and Cadiz in mainland Spain.

Flights Binter operate frequent (several times daily) direct flights to Santa Cruz in Tenerife, Tenerife South and to Gran Canaria, from where it is possible to get to all of the other Islands.

Airlines Binter

Ferries Lineas Romero Trasmediterranea Naviera Armas Fred Olsen

Island Information Overview of the Canary Islands Gran Canaria Fuerteventura Tenerife

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Which of the Canary Islands is best for you?

Sep 2, 2021 • 13 min read

Each of the eight Canary Islands has its own distinct character and appeal for travelers © Andreas Weibel / Getty Images

Eerily beautiful lava-sculpted mountains, rippling sugar-white and bare black-rock beaches, distant villages teetering atop ridges, tumbling pine forests full of churning mists and exhilarating hikes, and plenty of sun-toasted resorts – Spain’s far-flung Canary Islands are deservedly one of Europe’s most popular destinations.

Many travelers become so enamoured with the Canary Islands that they return year after year, often exploring a different island every trip. But where to start? While the eight Canary Islands make up the archipelago west of Morocco’s Atlantic coast, each island has its own distinct charm, character and appeal. No matter your travel style, here’s a guide to finding the Canary Island that's best for you.

Parts of Spain now require a health pass from visitors to enter indoor spaces

Best island for mountains, hiking and food

Beyond the British-geared tourist resorts sprinkled across the island’s south, Spain’s formidable tallest peak – snow-dusted 12,523ft-high El Teide – puts age-old favorite  Tenerife on almost every las Canarias itinerary. Combined with the surreal Unesco-listed 73-sq-mile Parque Nacional del Teide, this impossibly spectacular volcanic moonscape serves up some of the most exciting hiking in all of Spain. Only 200 walkers a day can tackle the five-hour ascent to the summit: book ahead online . Across the island, other jaw-droppingly beautiful walks lead past charismatic villages, through perfumed Canarian pine woods or down plunging valleys such as the 4-mile (6.5km) Barranco del Infierno .    

And then there’s the blossoming, ever-more sophisticated local food scene. Tenerife is the only Canary island blessed with Michelin stars – six at last count, with temples to haute cuisine running from Martín Berasategui’s two-star, Basque-inspired  M.B to the Padrón brothers’ seafood sensation  El Rincón de Juan Carlos .

Where to stay on Tenerife

Finding a room is generally not a problem in Santa Cruz and in the north of the island (apart from at Carnaval time), but the same cannot be said for the southern resorts, particularly around Los Cristianos and Playa de las Américas; book in advance when possible. Hotel Alhambra  in La Orotava sleeps guests in an art-packed 18th-century manor. 

Where to eat on Tenerife

Visitors can ditch the resort buffets in favor of more appealing and imaginative dishes, ranging from traditional Canarian cuisine, typified by robust homestyle cooking, right through to the tantalizing haute cuisine of gastro temples, where innovative chefs serve some fabulously novel fusion combinations. Tenerife's capital city of Santa Cruz de Tenerife hosts an array of outstanding restaurants. Try Guannabi  for creatively executed Mediterranean-fusion dishes in a delightfully converted Canarian house.

How to get to Tenerife

Two airports serve Tenerife: Tenerife Sur Airport handles international flights, while almost all inter-island flights (plus a few international and mainland services) use the older and smaller Tenerife Norte Airport. Ferries also travel to Tenerife from the other Canary islands, but flying is the fastest way to travel between the islands, and prices are very competitive.

Gran Canaria

Best island for mountains, history and food.

The most populous among the islands, often-maligned  Gran Canaria proves as inspiringly diverse as the Canaries’ deliciously varied cuisine. Swirls of mist-cloaked mountains give way to desert-like fields and lush laurel and pine forests (and, yes, a few packed-out tourist resorts), while intriguing pre-Hispanic sights like Gáldar’s  Cueva Pintada conjure a picture of the archipelago’s original inhabitants, the Guanches. Explore further on a twists-and-turns road trip through the island’s high-altitude center, whose beauty and drama peak at top-of-the-world cave-village Artenara, before stocking up on creamy queso de flor (flower cheese) and other local goodies at a farmers’ market. Soak up the distinctive Canarian architecture in soulful capital of  Las Palmas de Gran Canaria , Spain’s ninth-largest city.

Where to stay on Gran Canaria

Gran Canaria arguably has the best range of accommodations in the Canaries, depending on whether you want to wake up to sounds of birdsong, the surf or surrounded by the vigor and excitement of a Spanish-mainland-style city. The bright, colorful and welcoming La Ventana Azul hostel is spectacularly located right on the beachfront and has a rooftop terrace and free snorkel rental.

Where to eat on Gran Canaria

The breathtaking topographic disparities and climatic variations, including contrasting humid trade winds and dry desert-air currents, all help to generate a diverse patchwork of agricultural produce. Along with the aquacultural goods on offer, Gran Canaria's pantry is rich and bountiful. Add to that the farmers' markets and fish markets and you will discover a tempting abundance of food choice. You'll find outstanding "eco-fusion" cuisine at  Llévame al Huerto .

How to get to Gran Canaria

Gran Canaria Airport has direct flights to destinations throughout Europe, as well as all of the Canary Islands. Two passenger harbors on Gran Canaria offer inter-island ferries.

Best island for landscapes, art and architecture

An entrancing world of brooding volcanic cones, glinting black-pebble beaches, thundering Atlantic surf and the odd palm-spangled valley,  Lanzarote feels like a giant color-shifting natural canvas. So it’s no surprise that the island is tightly tied to 20th-century artist and environmental campaigner César Manrique, whose impossible-to-miss influence you’ll uncover around every corner – from the whitewashed, sky-blue-windowed homes of mellow coastal villages like La Caleta de Famara, Arrieta and El Golfo to the inimitable lava-field house at the  Fundación César Manrique . At the heart of it all lies the 20-sq-mile Parque Nacional de Timanfaya. Savor this otherworldly volcanic landscape by scrambling up the sprawling  Caldera Blanca on a 5.5-mile (9km) hike at the park’s edge.

Where to stay on Lanzarote

Much of Lanzarote’s accommodations are in self-catering apartments, private villas and sprawling resorts, which you'll find in Puerto del Carmen, Costa Teguise and Playa Blanca. That said, there's a growing number of wonderful independent hotels dotted around, especially in the island's wine-growing region and northern reaches – and places like these play a key role in giving travelers an insight into the fascinating Lanzarote that lies beyond its beach resorts. Artfully reimagined bodega  Buenavista Lanzarote offers five eco-conscious "country suites" amid volcanic vineyards.

Where to eat on Lanzarote

Canarian cuisine stands strong on Lanzarote, but with its own delicious twists, including local goat's cheese, roasted meats and three styles of the much-loved mojo  (spicy sauce made from coriander, basil or red chili peppers). There are wonderful restaurants all over the island (both local-style and creatively international), with the best food found well beyond the resorts. Canarian-international  La Cantina is a beloved dining spot in delightful Teguise.

How to get to Lanzarote

Aeropuerto César Manrique–Lanzarote has an array of flights to and from Europe, as well as Gran Canaria, Tenerife and La Palma. Other Canary islands are accessible with stopovers in Gran Canaria and Tenerife. From Arrecife's Puerto de los Mármoles, ferries connect with Gran Canaria and on to Tenerife and La Palma. From Playa Blanca, there are regular ferries to Corralejo on Fuerteventura.

Fuerteventura

Best island for beaches and water sports.

A Unesco Biosphere Reserve since 2009, the second-largest Canary island (after Tenerife) lures visitors with its dazzling beaches, year-round sunny climate and raw lunar-like beauty. Wind-lashed and evocatively arid,  Fuerteventura is graced by the archipelago’s dreamiest sands: the honey-colored dunes of the protected  Parque Natural de Corralejo , surf-mad  El Cotillo (originally a fishing village) and blissfully undeveloped pale-gold  Playa de Cofete on the island’s southern tip. You can go surfing, sailing, windsurfing, kitesurfing and diving (even freediving), and venture out on some excellent hikes, including around the Isla de Lobos nature reserve.

Where to stay on Fuerteventura

Corralejo and Morro Jable have the most beds, although casas rurales (village or farmstead accommodations) are increasingly sprouting up in the rural interior. Chic minimalist  Avanti makes a stylish adults-only base in Corralejo.

Where to eat on Fuerteventura

More than any other Canary island, Fuerteventura’s traditional cuisine is simple and essentially the result of poverty, but is today marked by the quality and freshness of its ingredients.  Restaurante Avenida rustles up classic Canarian cuisine.

How to get to Fuerteventura

Fuerteventura airport has direct flights to Gran Canaria and Tenerife, from where you can fly on to the other islands. Ferries depart for Lanzarote, Gran Canaria and Tenerife.

Best island for nature and hiking

It’s impossible not to fall for gorgeously green, refreshingly under-touristed  La Palma , with its hushed pine groves, steep rainforested hills and architecturally rich capital  Santa Cruz de la Palma , filled with graceful 16th-century mansions. Around 528 miles (850km) of walking routes meander across the island, the most thrilling of them centered on the unmissable 18-sq-mile Parque Nacional de la Caldera de Taburiente, whose 5-mile-wide depression was created by a volcano collapsing in on itself.  The 7-mile (11.4km) round-trip climb to the 6082ft-high summit of Pico de Bejenado is a view-laden showstopper of scattered pines, sharp ridges and mysterious petroglyphs.

Where to stay on La Palma

La Palma has an appealing choice of accommodations suiting all tastes but without the bloated beach resorts on other islands. If you want to live more like a local or in a rural villa with a swimming pool, choose one of the casas rurales for rent across the island. Beamed ceilings set the boutiquey scene at Santa Cruz’ intimate  Hotel San Telmo .

Where to eat on La Palma

The diverse landscapes of "La Isla Bonita" are set to an equally varied and mouthwatering culinary backdrop. Santa Cruz de la Palma offers a tempting range of international and local cuisine, rounded off by a superb cafe or two. Elsewhere, the island is speckled with culinary choice, from handsomely located tapas restaurants in El Paso to select Canarian in the volcanic south or excellent seafood restaurants overlooking dazzling views of the sapphire sea. Book ahead to sample the fresh-produce cooking at locally loved restaurant  Enriclai .

How to get to La Palma

La Palma’s airport keeps the island well connected to the rest of the archipelago, with several flights daily to Tenerife and Gran Canaria, and occasional direct flights to some of the other islands. There are flights to La Palma from European destinations such as London, Manchester, Frankfurt, Paris, Madrid, Amsterdam, Brussels and Barcelona. Ferries head to Tenerife, La Gomera and Gran Canaria.

Best island for hiking 

Cascading down thickly forested hillsides and precipitous valleys from the wind-battered 4878ft-high Alto de Garajonay, bohemian  La Gomera is a hiker’s dream. The fairytale-like 15-sq-mile Parque Nacional de Garajonay at the heart of the island bursts with trails tracking through misty ancestral laurisilva forest (try the 6.5-mile downhill  Alto–Hermigua hike ), while elsewhere, thrilling paths cling to sheer valley walls or meander along the blackened volcanic coastline. When you’re all hiked out, stroll the pastel-painted streets of sea-hugging capital  San Sebastián de la Gomera and dig into hearty local specialities like potaje de berros (watercress stew), miel de palma  (palm honey) or fresh goat’s cheese.

Where to stay on La Gomera

The island has, so far, kept grand-scale tourism at bay, and most lodging is in small rural hotels, family-run pensiones, refurbished farmhouses and self-catering apartments. There are also plenty of appealing casas rurales , many of which were abandoned by emigrants and have since been refurbished for tourists. La Gomera's top hotel is the  Parador de la Gomera , in the style of a 15th-century Canarian mansion.

Where to eat on La Gomera

La Gomera's cuisine is classic, simple Canarian, starring fresh seafood, meaty mains, hearty stews such as potaje de berros (watercress stew) and, of course, patatas arrugadas (wrinkly potatoes) with lashings of mojo . The island's international community has introduced a few other flavors too, especially in Valle Gran Rey, which hosts some good fusion and vegetarian restaurants alongside its traditional offerings. Don’t miss the outstanding home cooking at much-loved restaurant  Casa Efigenia .

How to get to La Gomera

Aeropuerto de La Gomera has several daily flights to Tenerife. Ferries from Tenerife and La Palma arrive into San Sebastián’s busy port. The vast majority of people arrive here on day trips from Los Cristianos, Tenerife.

Best island for diving, hiking and escaping it all

Those who make it as far as the Canaries’ westernmost island quickly realize they’re onto something special. Ringed by glittering natural pools and impenetrable volcanic cliffs,  El Hierro has been a protected Unesco Geopark since 2014, and plans are under way to transform it into the world’s first energy-self-sufficient island. Here, on what feels like the edge of the earth, quiet hiking trails such as the historic 16-mile (27km)  Camino de la Virgen weave through flower-filled fields and scented pine forests. Other paths, like the spine-tingling 2.7-mile (4.4km)  Camino de Jinama , traverse sheer cliff faces above lava-hewn landscapes. Meanwhile, the warm, glass-clear Atlantic waters off El Hierro’s craggy coastline unveil the finest diving in the Canaries, especially around the tranquil Mar de las Calmas near sunny La Restinga in the south.

Where to stay on El Hierro

El Hierro's accommodation scene isn't the most exciting in the Canary Islands, but you aren't here for flashy resorts. The best places to stay are charming rural hotels and private casas rurales , and there are plenty of budget-friendly self-catering apartments across the island. Stay at boho-rustic converted bodega  El Sitio , which hosts yoga retreats.

Where to eat on El Hierro

Food on El Hierro might be unpretentious, but it's delicious, much of it produced on the island or off its coasts. The lack of tourist traffic ensures restaurants are catering mainly to a local clientele, which means higher standards. Dine at the elegant  Restaurante Mirador de la Peña , designed by César Manrique.

How to get to El Hierro

El Hierro's tiny airport has just a few flights to Tenerife and Gran Canaria, where you can take onward transport to the rest of the archipelago. Naviera Armas has one daily sailing Sunday to Friday between El Hierro's Puerto de la Estaca and Tenerife's Los Cristianos.

La Graciosa

Best island for beaches and going back to basics.

Named the eighth Canary Island in 2018, serene sand-swept La Graciosa lies just a half-hour boat ride north of Lanzarote. On this low-lying beauty of an island, wild honey-gold beaches wrap around scorched volcanic cones, and the only way to explore is on foot, by bicycle or by rented jeep. Most visitors arrive on day trips from Órzola on Lanzarote, but if you stay a few nights on La Graciosa, you’ll feel worlds away from the Canary Islands’ buzz. Hike or bike over to remote  Playa de las Conchas or secluded  Playa Francesa  before settling in for a seafood feast in low-key "capital" Caleta de Sebo.

Where to stay on Isla Graciosa

Accommodations on Isla Graciosa are mostly in simple, comfortable pensiones or private apartments.  Pensión Enriqueta has great-value, no-fuss rooms and a lively restaurant in Caleta de Sebo.

Where to eat on Isla Graciosa

You'll enjoy excellent fresh seafood at most of Caleta de Sebo's mellow restaurants, including  Casa Margucha and  El Veril .

How to get to Isla Graciosa

Biosfera Express and Líneas Romero run ferries between Órzola and Caleta de Sebo.

Best time to visit the Canary Islands

High season: december to april and july to august.

• Coincides with Christmas, Carnaval season and Easter.
• Accommodation prices are highest in January and February.
• Midsummer, especially August, is vacation time on the Spanish mainland, so expect more visitors.
• July and August are the hottest months of the year, but temperatures rarely climb higher than 100°F (38°C).
• Rain is possible from January to March, especially in the mountains.

Shoulder Season: May to June and September to November

• Temperatures average around 82°F (28°C), and nights are cooler.
• Fewer tourists visit in the fall overall.
• Higher altitudes, particularly in Gran Canaria, Tenerife and El Hierro, can be far cooler with some fog.

This article was originally published in August 2019.

You might also like: Hidden Tenerife: best places to avoid the crowd Hiking in Gran Canaria: the island’s best walks The unsung Canary Island: exploring La Gomera

This article was first published Aug 21, 2019 and updated Sep 2, 2021.

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Live it up, Las Palmas!

Inter-island travel Canary Islands

The main/official Canary Islands are Tenerife, Fuerteventura, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, La Palma, La Gomera, El Hierro and La Graciosa, plus there are more islands like Alegranza, Isla de Lobos, Montaña Clara, Roque del Oeste and Roque del Este. Enough to explore! There are two ways to travel between the islands; ferry or flight. Flights between…

The main/official Canary Islands are Tenerife, Fuerteventura, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, La Palma, La Gomera, El Hierro and La Graciosa, plus there are more islands like Alegranza, Isla de Lobos, Montaña Clara, Roque del Oeste and Roque del Este. Enough to explore!

There are two ways to travel between the islands; ferry or flight.

Flights between the Canary Islands

The two main airlines on the Canary Islands are Binter Canarias and CanaryFly .

Binter Canarias has been operating since 2002 and flies to/from El Hierro, Fuerteventura, Gran Canaria, La Gomera, Lanzarote, La Palma, Tenerife Norte and Tenerife Sur. They also have some destinations on the peninsula, plus flights to some airports in France, Italy, Portugal and four destination in the continent of Africa.

CanaryFly started operating in 2008 and offers only inter-island flights.

Both airlines have a good reputation and normally it’s just a matter of comparing prices to choose one airline over the other for inter-island travel. They often have discounts and residents even get a 75% discount on flights between the island and flights to the peninsula.

Did you know that you can fly (direct!) to 126 destinations from Gran Canaria? Check the national and international destinations here .

Ferries between the Canary Islands

Another option for inter island travel between the Canary Islands, is to take the ferry. There are four companies that you can book; all other ones are intermediairs.

Residents of the Canary Islands get a 75% discount on the ferry.

Fred Olsen is probably the most known and has the most connections between the islands and between the peninsula. The ferry is usually more expensive than a flight, but is more convenient if you want to bring a car, bicycle or pet. Check their full schedule here .

Naviera Armas is another big ferry company, with ferries between the Canary Islands and the peninsula. Check their full schedule here .

Lineas Romero is a smaller ferry company and only offers ferries between Lanzarote – La Graciosa and between Lanzarote – Fuerteventura. For bookings and more info check their website .

Biosfera Express is the smallest company and only offers ferries between Lanzarote and La Graciosa for fixed prices. You can book your ferry ticket here .

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Explore > Destinations > Spain > What to Know for Visiting the Canary Islands

What to Know for Visiting the Canary Islands

Located off the coast of northwestern Africa, the Canary Islands are a tropical paradise and an excellent destination for beachgoers and adventurers. Whether you want a luxurious beach retreat or an adventurous outing, here are some travel tips for traveling in the Canary Islands and advice to make the most of your visit.

The height of the tourist season in the Canary Islands is during the winter and summer. Many people from cold climates travel in winter for an island retreat, and summer is a popular time for families. What to know before you go is to travel during the spring months of March to May and fall months of September to November. Traveling during these months will give you the same pleasant, sunny weather and warmth as the peak season, as well as lower travel rates and fewer crowds.

How to Get Around

All of the Canary Islands have airports, but if you’re coming from the U.S., you’ll have to take a flight to a European city and connect to the islands. Once you arrive on the Canary Islands, you’ll have several options for how to get around. The islands are connected by inter-island ferry services, and you can get around the islands themselves with buses or taxis. Many travelers prefer to rent a car to have the freedom to tour and explore on their own time.

Which Island to Visit

The Canary Islands vary significantly, so it’s good to know before you go and plan which island will have the best experiences for your interests. If you’re going to spend your time on the beach or enjoying watersports, Fuerteventura is the best option, while Gran Canaria and Las Palmas offer diverse landscapes of rainforests, beaches, and mountains for outdoor enthusiasts. If you want a more cultured experience, Lanzarote is the best choice. If you want hiking and remote scenery, El Hierro and La Gomera are perfect. For a mix of everything, visit Tenerife and its beautiful beaches .

What to See

Depending on where you choose to stay during your trip, the Canary Islands boast an array of must-see sights and attractions. Some of the highlights you’ll wish you knew include the Teide  National Park and its massive volcano, Timanfaya National Park , Caldera de Taburiente National Park, Siam Park , Playa Blanco, and the Natural Dune Reserve of Maspalomas. You could also see the botanic park, aviary, and dolphinarium of Palmitos Park, the Cactus Garden, and the Pyramids of Güímar, an ethnology park with stone pyramids.

What to Pack

The average temperature of the Canary islands is 75°F year-round, though some areas can get cooler or hotter. When you’re packing for your trip, it’s good to anticipate weather changes and bring plenty of clothing options, such as a light jacket or sweater, closed-toe shoes that are comfortable to walk in, and hats to protect yourself from the sun. You’ll also want to bring a swimsuit, shorts, short-sleeved shirts, and sandals for hot days. You may want to bring a small backpack or a large tote bag to carry extra layers, water, and other supplies if you plan to hike or spend a long day at the beach.

Understand the Local Culture and Customs

The Canary Islands are part of Spain, so many of the locals speak Spanish. You’ll also find some people speak the native language, Silbo. The culture varies from island to island, and the island people are set apart from mainland Spain by Latin American influences. Most places accept credit or debit cards and euros. Carnival is a big event in the Canary Islands, much like in Brazil, and takes place in February in Tenerife. If you plan on going to Carnival, it’s best to book well in advance and plan your trip early.

Safety Tips

The Canary Islands are a safe travel destination, but it’s best to exercise caution when traveling. Popular tourist areas are the most likely places you’ll encounter petty theft, so be sure to keep your valuables with your or safely locked away in the hotel safe. Try not to bring your valuables to the beach, and if you must, be sure they’re always attended. If you’re going to be spending time on the beach or in the parks, use a lot of sunscreen to avoid sunburn and drink plenty of water.

What to Eat

The Canary Islands have restaurants that cater to virtually every cuisine and budget. If you want to experience the local flavors and culinary culture of the islands, you should try the seafood. Many local restaurants serve delicious, fresh-caught seafood-based dishes like sea bream and parrotfish with locally grown vegetables or potatoes with spicy pepper sauce. You should also sample some of the island’s local wines, which are made from grapes grown and cultivated in volcanic ash soil for a unique flavor.

Know Local Restaurant Etiquette

Though it’s appreciated, tipping is not required in the Canary Islands. Members of the wait staff receive full wages and don’t rely on tips. Spanish meals tend to last longer than they do in the U.S. as well, so the wait staff won’t rush you. Mealtimes are also different, so it’s good to know before you go. Lunch usually takes place between 12 p.m. and 4 p.m., with a long break until around 7 p.m. for dinner. Many locals eat lunch later in the afternoon and don’t have dinner until after 9 p.m.

Traveling to the Canary Islands on a Budget

If you’re traveling to the Canary Islands on a budget, one of the best travel tips is to choose one island destination and spend your time there. Ferries and planes can add up, especially if you’re trying to pack all of the islands into one trip. It’s also best to travel during the shoulder or off-season and book early to get the best rates on travel and accommodations. If you have a lot of things you want to see during your trip, you can book a tour or package to save.

From its world-class resorts and pristine beaches to its fascinating attractions and diverse landscapes, there’s something for everyone in the Canary Islands. Now that you have all the essential information before visiting the Canary Islands, you’re ready to plan your trip. Visit Expedia to check out deals on Canary Islands vacations and prepare for the time of your life!

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A COMPLETE TRAVEL GUIDE TO THE CANARY ISLANDS

Are you visiting the Canary Islands soon? You need some help to plan your trip? We spent 3 months traveling through the Canary Islands and we prepared this comprehensive travel guide for you!

With its stunning beaches , incredible landscapes, fantastic traditions and delicious food, the Canary Islands is a dream destination in Europe. In this post we will share useful tips for traveling to the Canary Islands.

The Canary Islands are composed of 7 unique islands . The best known and most visited are Lanzarote (our favorite one…) and Tenerife . However each island has something special to offer. To know more about each island you can read this post .

1. Why traveling to the the Canary Islands?

When we started our trip to the Canary Islands , we didn’t know what to expect. However, during our journey we were amazed by the beauty and diversity of landscapes in the Canary Islands.

Just to give you some examples, you can see a desert in Maspalomas in Gran Canaria , you can reach the highest mountain in Spain at Mount Teide , Tenerife . You can also visit amazing beaches which will make you feel at the end of the world such as Cofete in Fuerteventura . And of course Lanzarote will make feel that you landed on the moon . Make sure to visit Timanfaya National Park in Lanzarote , one of the most incredible things to see in the Canary Islands!

The Canary Islands is a destination for everyone. So if you are more of a night owl, there is a vibrant nightlife in the Canary Islands! The best places to party are Playa del Inglés in Gran Canaria , or Corralejo in Fuerteventura .

• 10 BEST REASONS TO VISIT LANZAROTE
• 10 REASONS WHY YOU SHOULD VISIT FUERTEVENTURA
• TOP 8 REASONS TO VISIT GRAN CANARIA
• WHY VISITING TENERIFE?

2. Which island to visit in the Canary Islands?

Whether you want to enjoy the beach, or need some adventures, or want some great food there is something for everyone in the Canary Islands.

If you like to party , prioritise Gran Canaria . On top of having a great nightlife , Gran Canaria is also one of the most diverse islands in the Canary. Hence, you will be able to combine excursion during the day and partying at night! Here are the 20 best things to visit in Gran Canaria.

If you like hiking , then without a doubt Tenerife will be the best island to visit. Indeed, Tenerife is home to mount Teide the highest mountain in Spain! It is one of the most visited natural park in the whole of Europe! Full guide here to climb to the summit (it’s not as hard as you would imagine…)

If you want a complete change of landscape, then Lanzarote is the one! Lanzarote is a perfect place to feel the volcanic power of the Canary Islands, some places will make you feel on the moon.

For those you like water-sports such as surfing or kitesurfing , then the best island for that would be Fuerteventura! Here we listed the best outdoor activities in Fuerteventura and here the best spots for surfing in the Canary Islands .

If you want something more calm and off the beaten track, head to La Gomera, La Palma or El Hierro. Those 3 islands are the wildest amongst all of the Canary Islands .

READ: WHICH ONE IS THE BEST CANARY ISLAND TO VISIT?

3. When is the best time to visit the Canary Islands?

The Canary Islands benefit from a very unique climate which makes some say that is an eternal spring . Indeed the climate is good all year round and doesn’t change much throughout the year.

However some months are a bit more rainy than others… To visit the Canary Islands in the most optimal conditions, it is generally preferable to travel during the months of May to November . Most likely you will never have to deal with rain…

In the middle of winter, the Canary Islands will be a popular refuge for Europeans escaping cold temperature in the mainland. During this period, some rainfall can be observed, but the temperature rarely drops below 20°C. In terms of crowds, the most popular periods are therefore the months of July and August, but also the winter months and January in particular.

• WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT THE CANARY ISLANDS?
• BEST TIME OF THE YEAR TO VISIT LANZAROTE
• BEST MONTHS TO VISIT FUERTEVENTURA
• WHEN VISITING TENERIFE
• BEST TIME TO VISIT GRAN CANARIA

4. What budget should you plan to visit the Canary Islands?

To visit the Canary Islands without too much compromise, it is important to talk about the budget. This essential point of travel guides is always a sensitive aspect due to the volatility of prices and the countless parameters that influence them.

With regard to the Canary Islands, you must first know that the notions of high, low and medium season are essential. If you are traveling during the Christmas holidays or the months of July and August, expect to see prices skyrocket . So book well in advance!

You should also know that at the same time, the islands of El Hierro or La Gomera are much cheaper than Tenerife and Gran Canaria, for example.

In terms of accommodation and in general, you can find everything. From the small youth hostel at 20 euros per night to the most luxury hotels at 200 euros per night. What we found very expensive is eating in restaurants . A paella for 2 with 2 glasses of Sangria, would easily cost us 50 EUR… As we were traveling for 3 months, we decided to eat most of the time in our apartment. This helped our budget considerably!

Also remember to include car rental, which will amount to around 30 or 40 euros per day with decreasing rates if you opt for longer rental periods and of course depending on the type of car you rent. As for us we always rented a Fiat 500, which is generally the cheapest model. We loved it, except in Fuerteventura where the roads can be very bumpy. More on that here .

5. How to get to the Canary Islands from the rest of Europe?

By plane is obviously the fastest and cheapest way to get to the Canary Islands. There are many connections from the major cities in Europe. The best company to get to the Canary Islands , is Easy Jet. Remember that the earlier you book, the better fares you will get, which is absolutely essential if you choose to travel during the busy periods mentioned above.

However, there is a more adventurous way to get to the Canary Islands if you have sufficient time. You can take your car and drive down to the south of Spain. The cities of Cadiz or Huelva allow you to reach the islands of Las Palmas or Gran Canaria by ferry ! The crossing lasts between 30 and 40 hours depending on the weather conditions.

We didn’t know about it, until we saw cars with Swiss plates or German plates driving in the Canary Islands. We fell that this was a fantastic way to travel to the Canary Islands. And all islands are connected by ferry which makes it super easy to travel with your own car. Awesome, isn’t it?

If that’s an option for you, check out Direct Ferries to book your ride.

6. How to get around the Canary Islands?

Once you reach the Canary Islands, it is highly recommended to rent a car . To get the cheaper rate we used Rentalcars.com . Check it out here for the best deals.

Taking a taxi is also possible, however you will have less freedom to travel or take your time to visit certain sights. Especially for those who want to go hiking… There are also bus lines, but they will be relatively limited once you get off the beaten track. Finally, cycling can also be a good way to discover the Canary Islands .

If you want to visit multiple islands while you are in the Canaries, which we recommend, then using the ferry would be the best way . You can book all your ferry rides here .

7. Best traditional dishes in the Canary Islands?

Visiting the Canary Islands without eating a potato dish is practically impossible! Since its introduction by the Spaniards, potato has been integrated into many typical dishes. Try the Ropa Vieja , a kind of stew made with chickpeas and strips of beef and chicken or Pucherio Canario a stew with chorizo, bacon, cabbage, courgettes or pumpkin. Also taste the Papas Arrugadas , a delicacy of potatoes boiled in salted water and always accompanied by their Mojo sauce, often very spicy and extremely tasty.

The Gofio is a flour of wheat, or corn previously roasted, and which is used with all the sauces in the islands. This traditional food can be used to thicken soups, but can also be eaten with milk or even in the form of ice cream.

Meat lovers will appreciate the Canary Islands for the diversity of their dishes, which include pork and rabbit as well as chicken and goat. Seafood lovers will be served with cod, bass, sardines and of course octopus.

As for desserts, we particularly recommend the Leche Asada , a cinnamon cream caramelized with palm honey.

Finally, to drink, you can try delicious local wines and don’t forget the Barraquito, a multi-layered coffee consisting of an  espresso, condensed milk and a touch of Licor 43  which is Spain’s number 1 liqueur. Really delicious!

8. What are the best things to do in the Canary Islands?

If we were to list all the great things to do in the Canary Island, the list would be way too long! We probably have over a 100 recommendations.

So we to make it simple, we prepared some of the highlights on each island such as below.

What to see in Lanzarote ?

• TIMANFAYA NATIONAL PARK , the unmissable thing to see in Lanzarote:  here
• PAPAGAYO BEACH , the most beautiful beach in Lanzarote:  here
• FAMARA , a charming village and surf paradise:  here
• JAMEOS DEL AGUA , our favorite sight in Lanzarote:  here
• CACTUS GARDEN  in Lanzarote:  here

What to see in Tenerife ?

• PUERTO DE LA CRUZ, one of the best town in Tenerife:  here
• MASCA,  the most remote village in Tenerife:  here
• MOUNT TEIDE , the highest peak in Spain:  here
• SAN CRISTÓBAL DE LA LAGUNA , the ancient capital of Tenerife:  here
• LOS GIGANTES , most impressive cliffs in Tenerife:  here
• GARACHICO , one of the prettiest towns in Tenerife:  here

What to see in Gran Canaria?

• VISITING LAS PALMAS,  the capital of Gran Canaria: here
• TEROR , one of the most charming towns in Gran Canaria:  here
• MASPALOMAS  a desert in Gran Canaria:  here
• PUERTO DE MOGÁN , our favorite place in Gran Canaria:  here
• AGÜIMES , a fantastic historical town in Gran Canaria:  here
• TEJEDA , visit one of the prettiest village in Gran Canaria:  here

What to see in Fuerteventura?

• CORRALEJO DUNES NATURAL PARK , full guide:  here
• EL COTILLO,  a charming village near Corralejo in Fuerteventura:  here
• COFETE , the best beach in Fuerteventura:  here
• HIKING CALDERON HONDO  in Fuerteventura:  here
• OASIS PARK  in Fuerteventura:  here

9. Useful information

Money : the Canary Islands belong to Spain, so the currency is the euro.

Passport : Spain belongs to the Schengen Convention area, you do not need a passport to go there.

Vaccines : no particular vaccine is necessary.

Language : the official language is Spanish, but all seasonal workers speak English and sometimes even French.

Tipping : It is appreciated if customers leave a tip in taxis, hotels or restaurants to approximately 5 to 10% of the price.

Safety : the Canary Islands are safe but, as with any tourist destination, be careful with your belongings and do not leave anything in sight.

READ: 10 BEST REASONS TO VISIT THE CANARY ISLANDS

10. CONCLUSION

The Canary Islands are a real gems with full of surprise. During our 3 months traveling through the Islands, we realized how beautiful but more importantly how diverse each island is. There are so many things to do and see in the Canary islands. Even during our 3 months we couldn’t see it all. Each island has its own treasures!

READ: 10 BEST BEACHES IN THE CANARY ISLANDS

So what are you waiting for? Did you book your flight yet? Book here for the best prices .

We hope that this post was useful to prepare for your visit to the Canary Islands. If you have any questions, feel free to leave a comment below.

We are Hammer and Guillaume, a fun couple traveling the world. We will take you to some of the most amazing places on earth. Hammer is a yoga instructor and Guillaume a true water baby, enjoying all kinds of water sports. Follow-us to get the latest update about our travels.

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• Gran Canaria
• Fuerteventura
• Canary Islands News
• Canary Islands Weather
• Canary Islands Money Saving Tips
• Island Hopping (Ferries and Flights)
• Rip-offs and Scams in the Canary Islands
• Which Canary Island has the best Weather?
• Top Luxury Hotels in the Canary Islands
• Beer in the Canary Islands
• Are the Canary Islands one hour ahead of the UK?

• El Hierro, Canary Islands
• Fuerteventura, Canary Islands
• Gran Canaria, Canary Islands
• La Gomera, Canary Islands
• La Palma, Canary Islands
• Lanzarote, Canary Islands
• Tenerife, Canary Islands
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Island Hopping in the Canaries

• Top All-inclusive Hotels in the Canary Islands

Surprisingly, island hopping is not a well-known or well-developed concept in the Canary Islands. There are some historic reasons for this (more on this below), however many of the obstacles to island hopping have now disappeared and it is now much easier to fly to one island, travel to another, then fly back to your home country from there. Nowadays, there are plenty of inter-island flight and ferry connections, so it’s easy to get around, once you have a basic understanding of the locations of the ports and frequency of sailings.

So why do so few people Island-hop in the Canaries?

The main reason is a government subsidy of inter-island flights and ferries that applies only to residents of the islands. This means that inter-island travel is very expensive for tourists – ferries cost roughly double that of equivalent routes in the Greek Islands. The 50% subsidy for residents has allowed a near-monopoly to develop for inter-island flights, where it is often cheaper to fly to London than to fly to a neighbouring island.

Another historic reason, which no longer applies, was the dominance of package holidays in the islands, though the emergence of low-cost airlines and hotel booking websites means that it is now much easier for the independent traveller to make their own arrangements. We would still recommend booking your room in advance though, as you won’t find people waiting to sell you a room at the ferry port, and most Hotel’s published ‘rack’ rates are a lot higher than those that you’ll find online.

Binter Canarias is the largest inter-island airline and operate in all of the main Canary Islands airports. Although they don’t operate direct flights between all of the islands, connecting flights without re-check-ins can be booked with ease on their website. Travellers should note that Tenerife has two airports, with most inter-island flights operating from Tenerife North. For a supplemental fee, a ferry transfer to La Graciosa is also available. Binter also offer flights to the Azores, Cape Verde Islands, Madeira and several African cities.

CanaryFly are a relatively new airline and operate flights from Gran Canaria to Fuerteventura, Tenerife North and Lanzarote, and from Tenerife North to La Palma, Lanzarote and Gran Canaria.

Binter Canarias Canaryfly

As well as avoiding the security process in the airport, the ferry connections in the Canary Islands will often bring you closer to your accommodation, since most of the Islands’ airports are quite far from the main cities and tourist towns. A ferry will bring you right into the heart of major cities such as Las Palmas or Santa Cruz de Tenerife, or large tourist centres such as Playa Blanca or Los Cristianos.

Ferry Routes

From lanzarote, from fuerteventura, from gran canaria, from tenerife, from la palma, from la gomera, from el hierro.

Trasmediterranea operate a ferry between Cadiz (in Mainland Spain) and Santa Cruz de La Palma, stopping in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Las Palmas, Puerto del Rosario and Arrecife. It is slow, but does offer a direct route between Las Palmas and Santa Cruz de La Palma.

Fred Olsen offer some bus-ferry combination tickets; e.g. from from Puerto del Carmen in Lanzarote to Corralejo in Fuerteventura (with bus transfer between Puerto del Carmen and the ferry port in Playa Blanca included). Connecting tickets with stop-overs are also available. Sometimes ferry tickets are available at a discount through alternative channels such as excursion ticket offices or as part of a coach excursion. Return tickets between Playa Blanca and Corralejo are usually cheaper from one of the small excursion offices at Playa Blanca port.

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Canary Islands; Inter-Island Travel

Just because you've chosen one of the islands as your main destination, doesn't mean you can't visit one or more of the others. Flight time from one island to another is around 45 minutes.

The ferry service between Fuerteventura and Lanzarote takes around 20 minutes, between Tenerife and La Gomera, little over an hour and less than an hour between Tenerife and Gran Canaria. Of course, people have been known to swim between islands but this limits you on the amount of luggage you can take with you.

The easiest way would be to see a holiday rep once you've arrived and ask about booking a day trip. This way, they take care of getting you to the port/airport on time, provide transport and once at your destination, take you to the most interesting places and provide you with meals.

If you're not traveling with a tour operator, you can still call in to one of their complexes and ask to go on one of their tours.

The main airline that travels between the islands is Binter Canarias. They run regular flights during the day from one island to another. Advanced booking is advised as the flights can become full with queues of people and the waiting lists. CanaryFly also travel between the islands

If you have a confirmed seat then check in is usually 45 minutes before the flight is due to depart. There's no allocation of seats until you actually get on the plane itself so if you want a good one, be the first in the queue when the flight's and then just run!

The Ferry Companies that run between the islands are Spain's national ferry service,  Transmediterranea ,  Fred Olsen  and  Armas . They each have regular ferry and jetfoil services, the latter being the faster but slightly more expensive option.

Longer journeys - Gran Canaria to the north of Fuerteventura or Tenerife to La El Hierro are examples - can be traveled overnight, 8 hours asleep in a cabin.

With all the ferry companies, CanaryFly & Binter Airways, you can switch their web sites into English, look at the latest timetables and check out the cost of each journey. If you're happy with what you find there you make your booking online for a "ticketless flight".

In my experience, rather than hiring a car on one island and taking it over on the ferry, it's cheaper to leave it at the port and hire another one at the port your going to. Also with many of the car hire companies you won't be insured if you take the car to a different island. 

The cost of flights to any of the major islands are very similar so it's also feasable/economical to fly into one island, cross over to another then fly back home from there.

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Canary Islands   Travel Guide

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Getting Around Canary Islands

The best ways to get around the Canary Islands are by car and by plane. Although there are bus systems available on all the islands, most don't run frequently enough to be useful to tourists. And the islands' attractions are far too spread out to see completely on foot. A car will enable you to get where you want to go quickly and efficiently. When you want to island hop, a plane is a reliable and efficient way to get around. If you'd rather get around by boat, several companies also offer inter-island ferry services.

Although all seven islands have airports, the busiest airports are Tenerife South Airport (TFS), Tenerife North Airport (TFN) and Gran Canaria Airport (LPA). At the moment, however, there are no direct flights from the U.S. to the Canary Islands. To reach the islands, you'll have to first make a pit stop at a European airport like Madrid . When it comes to ground transportation, all of the airports offer some combination of taxis, car rental agencies and buses.

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Tenerife Gran Canaria Lanzarote Fuerteventura La Palma La Gomera El Hierro

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Travel by Ferry in the Canary Islands (Tenerife and others)

Discover how to buy your ferry tickets in the canary islands (tenerife, lanzarote, gran canaria, fuerteventura, la gomera, la palma and el hierro):.

A good option both to get to the Canary Islands as to travel between each other is to take a ferry. If you wish to use the ferry you should know that there are many regular trips per day and usually they are very punctual. You might also take your own car on the Ferry.

According to your departure, there are different ferry types which will take more or less time. As an example you should know that a trip from Cadiz to Lanzarote might take from 1 to 2 days.

Ferry to the Canary Islands and Tenerife from Spain:

The main Ferry lines between the Peninsula and the Canary Islands are:

Gran Canaria – Cádiz – Gran Canaria Lanzarote -  Cádiz  – Lanzarote Tenerife -  Cádiz  – Tenerife

Ferry in the Canary Islands to travel between the different islands:

If you’ve already decided to travel between the Canary Islands by Ferry you should know that there are many different combinations to nearly every island. As, for example, you wish to go from Cadiz to Fuerteventura and, for some reason, the dates don’t match your wishes, you might always go from Cádiz to Lanzarote and from Lanzarote to Fuerteventura as this trip will only take 30 minutes and it’s very accessible.

Main Ferry lines between islands:

La Palma – Tenerife Tenerife – (Gran Canaria, La Palma, Gran Canaria, La Gomera and el hierro) Gran Canaria – (Tenerife, Fuerteventura, Lanzarote) Fuerteventura – (Gran Canaria, Lanzarote) Lanzarote (Fuerteventura y Gran Canaria) .

List of the most used/recommended means of transport:

• Means of transport to travel inside an island:
• How I can go from one island to another?
• Means of transport to travel between different islands:
• Rent a Bike

Flight Offers:

Compare flight offers and book in advance to save some money.

Book now your Hotel or Apartment:

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How To Travel Between Canary Islands: The Ultimate Guide

There are two main ways to travel from Canary Island to Canary Island: Boat and plane. Most travelers will try the latter first these days. That’s because flying is not only a whole load quicker but also cheaper in many cases.

Ferries are slower and tend to be more expensive when it comes to getting between the major islands. Reasons you might want to take them include the ability to transport cars and more luggage, but also the pleasantness of the ride itself ( whale spotting is a possibility , you know?).

There are pretty darn good links between this set of Spanish isles . Flights and ferries combine to offer a whole load of different options, both quick and interesting, affordable and comfy. Let’s dig a little deeper…

Table of Contents

How to travel between the Canary Islands – a quick overview

Now we’ve got the geography lesson out of the way, let’s take a look at how you can hop and cross that 300 miles of Atlantic Ocean from west to east, east to west, all in search of perfect beaches and the best volcano hikes. Let’s begin by stating the obvious: There are only two ways to cross from isle to isle, by sea or by air. To put it another way, by plane or by boat.

Mhmm, there are no bridges that link any of the isles, no underwater tunnels, no causeways. You’re going to have to ditch the wheels for this one. The good news is that actually makes things pretty simple, as you always know there are only ever two choices for getting from A to B in these parts.

Generally speaking, flying is considered the fastest option while sailing is more relaxed. However, there are some routes that you might have to do by one method simply because there is no boat or flight connection on the menu. That’s why it’s worth getting to know a bit about both modes of transport…

How to travel between the Canary Islands by plane

Here’s the good news: Every single major island of the eight in the Canaries has its own airport, while Tenerife – one of the most popular – even has two. That probably makes this one of the best-connected regions for aviation in the whole of Europe, although most of the terminals are pretty small and only host a handful of carriers.

Talking of carriers…there are two main names to know about when it comes to internal flying here. Let’s take a quick look at each in turn:

• Binter Canarias – The biggest of the two carriers who operate domestic routes throughout the Canaries, Binter, as it’s known for short, has an encompassing array of links between major islands but also serves international destinations in mainland Spain and other Atlantic archipelagos like Cabo Verde.
• Canaryfly – A relatively new name on the block, Canaryfly was founded in 2008 and currently runs flights on eight of the most popular routes in the chain.

Both of the above operate airplanes designed specifically for short haul carrying. That means no massive Boeing and Airbus models, but rather smaller prop planes built by Bombardier and the like. The upshot? Capacity tends to be smaller so flights can sell out faster, but there’s also not an overload of demand and there are often multiple departures each day on the most popular routes.

Route wise, things are pretty good when it comes to moving from major islands to other major islands. For example, you can get upwards of 10 connections a day on Binter Canarias between Lanzarote and Gran Canaria. The same can’t be said for getting to smaller islands like La Gomera, which only has two or three daily links to Gran Canaria, and sometimes no links to other islands at all, meaning a stopover will be needed if you want to do certain legs in a single trip.

Prices tend to be VERY attractive for flights. As an example, springtime fares on Binter from Tenerife North to La Palma can be as low as €12.50 ($13.15) each way, while connections on the most popular routes rarely swell past €27 ($28.40) each way. These are also full-service fares, mostly allowing for some changes and with a checked baggage allowance of 20kg per person (10kg for infants). Not bad, eh?

The truth is that flying from Canary to Canary is now the number-one choice among travelers. Dropping airfare and high convenience means it’s very often the best way to get from A to B, especially when looking to move quite far across the archipelago, say from Lanzarote in the east all the way to La Palma in the west.

How to travel between the Canary Islands by boat

If you don’t have a head for heights or want to travel slow, then there’s always the option of the boats. At least four big companies still offer a comprehensive array of island-to-island links here, including Armas , Biosfera Express, Líneas Romero, and Fred Olsen. Some specialize in different regions of the Canaries, while others cover the whole shebang.

Laying out every route there is by ferry in the Canaries would take a short book but suffice to say there are lots to pick from. A good starting point for planning a trip is to get to know the major ports of each island. That’s Arrecife in Lanzarote, for example, but Las Palmas in Gran Canaria , and then much smaller Puerto de la Estaca over in El Hierro. Knowing the places where the boats depart from makes it easy to search for routes out to the places you want to go, helping you put together island-hopping itineraries in full.

Ferry links naturally take longer than connections in the air. While a flight from Lanzarote to Gran Canaria is in the range of 45 minutes, a boat trip can clock up 5.5-6.5 hours in all. It’s certainly not for commuters or hurried vacationers. In fact, one of the great draws of the trip by water is the journey itself – it’s not unusual to spot dolphin pods and whales as you go, while the vistas of other islands passing by can be wonderful.

Sadly, the prices don’t seem to mirror the extra effort it takes on many routes, so ferries in the Canaries are a bit of a labor of love. You can pay under €20 for a ride from Arrecife to Gran Canaria by plane but will have to fork out nearly €100 for the same trip done by the sea!

Of course, the major upside of ferry travel is that you can transport more than just yourself and your baggage. You can take whole cars and motorbikes if you like. However, if you plan on doing that and are renting a car, it’s certainly worth checking with your hire company that their policy allows for inter-island travel.

Reece is the creator and editor of Travel Snippet. He has visited more than 38 countries over a 10-year period. His travels have taken him through the majestic mountains of Italy, into the cities of central Europe, across the islands of Indonesia, and to the beaches of Thailand, where he is currently living. He is passionate about travel and shares his expertise by providing the best travel tips and tricks to help you plan your next adventure.

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When us Brits are finally allowed back, Is it possible to use Binter for an inter Island hop and if so, What would be the cost?

It is great to combine different islands in one holiday although it would not appeal to most holiday travelers.

As flight prices change please see the link below.

https://www.bintercanarias.com/eng

Check out the website of CanaryFly too.

It can be quite expensive for tourists to island-hop and of course it takes a lot of time, what with all the hanging around at airports. You need to go through the usual rigmarole of security checks.

I was thinking about a day trip.

On the other hand, you could island-hop to Fuerteventura on the ferry. You can visit Corralejo in very little time as the harbour is right in town, as it is in Playa Blanca .

No worries, maybe other people will also benefit from reading this thread.

“as I am not a Spanish resident.”

Next time could you please put in more information and be more precise with your enquiry. This will help other people to answer your question more accurately.

What more information do I need to give? I an a non Spanish resident. All I asked is "Can I do an island hop for a day trip with Binter or Canaryfly" and what would be the cost? ISH ?This could be sometime this year, or even next year.

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https://www.gobiernodecanarias.org/principal/coronavirus/semaforo/

Ferries are used extensively by the locals, even for commuting, so there are no cancellations. Look on Armas, Fred Olsen and Lineas Romero websites for schedules.

So now is possible to travel between islands without pcr test?

Yes, no need for a test as long as they're both in level 1 or 2. The need for a test (antigen is sufficient) and an essential reason for travel when in level 3 or 4 is currently disputed and going through the court of appeal. We should know in the next few days.

This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity.

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These 3 Gorgeous Islands In Spain Are Not Yet Ruined By Overtourism In 2024

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The Canary Islands may be the number one holiday spot in Spain right now, but that doesn't mean visitors are exactly welcome.

Just recently, thousands took to the streets to protest the rising levels of tourism, as visitor crowds are expected to surge come summer.

The seven-island Spanish archipelago in the Atlantic is widely popular for its year-round temperate climate and affordable resorts, but it's no secret that the top three most popular islands, namely Tenerife , Gran Canaria and Lanzarote are being ruined by the masses .

Not all of the Canaries are as badly affected, however, as these 3 gorgeous islands remain virtually unspoiled, with tourism largely under control:

Population: 22,000 Best known for: Atlantic nature, volcanos, crowd-free beaches How to get there: Ferry from Tenerife, regional flights departing from Gran Canaria and Tenerife-North

One of the hidden gems of the archipelago, La Gomera is often dubbed a ‘mini Tenerife' , as it is equally mountainous, with towering peaks cutting across its hinterland, offering nature enthusiasts epic hikes, dense forests and beaches of black volcanic sand.

Unlike its famous counterpart, however, this tiny island is a lot more quiet and laid-back, being home to about 22,000 inhabitants, distributed around six peaceful towns , and lacking Tenerife's debauchery and overdevelopment.

Though nature is a reigning queen – the mist-enveloped, moss-covered Garajonay National Park is one of the most beautiful not only in the Canaries, but the whole of Spain – it is also steeped in History.

It was Christopher Columbus' last port of call before he set sail to the Americas.

If you're keen on slowing it down and ditching the Tenerifian party scene, La Gomera is the perfect island, but don't expect to find the same luxurious all-inclusives or golf clubs here.

Instead, it's the idyllic and affordable three-star listings starting from $58 that await you.

Population: 11,000 Best known for: Rugged coast, houses made from volcanic stone, rural life How to get there: Ferry from Tenerife, regional flights departing from Gran Canaria and Tenerife-North

At only 103.67 square miles, El Hierro is the second-smallest of the Canaries, and a UNESCO-listed biosphere reserve best known for its thriving marine life, jagged volcanic peaks – the most out of any island in the archipelago despite its size – and unspoiled rural character .

La Gomera is already pretty rustic, but if you're looking to truly shut out the outside world, soak up the nature, and spend long balmy days basking in the Meridian sun, El Hierro – with its traditional fishing villages and modest hotels is where you should be headed.

With its houses made from volcanic stone and thatched roofs and natural pools, formed by lava thousands of years ago, dramatic rugged coast, well-delineated hiking paths and tourist-friendly boardwalks lapping around the terrain, it's the escape into nature you've been craving .

As you might have guessed, there's not exactly an abundance of hotels and guesthouses in El Hierro, giving visitors a greater sense of exclusivity, with around 50 accommodation providers listed and prices for B&B stays ranging between only $32 and $70.

Population: 84,000 Best known for: Mix of resort island and pacate countryside, affordable hotels and volcanic peaks How to get there: Flights from mainland Spain (Madrid), or numerous departure points all over Europe (mainly Northern Europe), ferries from Tenerife and Gran Canaria

The largest island on this list, with a population of over 80,000, La Palma is yet another volcanic offer in the Canaries, with the customary black sands, jagged mountains and verdant landscapes combined in a 273 square-mile sized package.

It is the happy medium between bustling, cosmopolitan Tenerife and the more tranquil La Gomera.

It is well-equipped and ‘international' enough, but more quaint than your typical resort zone , with plenty of unspoiled cobbled towns to explore, natural observation decks with sweeping mountain views, and a varied selection of boutique hotels to choose from.

The most famous volcanos on the island are Teneguia and Cumbre Vieja, which boast incredible panoramas of the dense, waterfall-dotted pine forests beneath, and if you're looking for a place to stay, Santa Cruz de la Palma, the compact, charming capital, is the best place to be based in.

It offers bus connections to other municipalities and points of interest in the landmark-packed island, as well as a plethora of restaurants and cultural attractions, with the cobbled Old Town and the Naval Museum, a replica of Columbus' 15th-century sailing ship, being two examples.

Single rooms in three-star hotels in La Palma start from as cheap as $59 per night , mainly in the capital area, going up to $222 for the more recluse, luxurious Hotel Hacienda de Abajo, an adults-only listing in the rapidly developing Tazacorte.

La Palma is the only Canary Island on this list to host flights from mainland European destinations, such as London, Dusseldorf, Frankfurt, Munich, Zurich.

Vinicius Costa

Vini, our senior lead writer at Travel Off Path, has over 60+ countries under his belt (and currently weaving tales from Paris!), and a knack for turning off-the-beaten-path experiences into informative stories that will have you packing your bags.

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